Cass Preston

righteye

2 years ago

CASS PRESTON
Jazz
Trumpet Player

Castromo “Cass” a native of Tucson, grew up in a house full of musical instruments and was influenced by his father. Growing up, Cass played trumpet for the Tucson High School band. Louis Armstrong, a family friend, stayed with Cass’ family and Cass was asked to perform a short solo in front of him. Louis told him to “keep it up.” This encouraged him to develop a trumpet sound that he describes as “sweet and cool,” and it’s helped him earn a reputation as one of Tucson’s most popular entertainers.

Cass’ favorite trumpet players are Louis Armstrong, Clifford Brown, Harry James, Randy Brooks, Bobby Hackett and Freddy Hubbard. Cass played at most of the popular jazz nightclubs in Tucson over the years such as The Executive Inn, The Redwood Gay 90’s, Monte Vista, Gus & Andy’s, Jester’s Court, Flying Tiger, The Beachcomber and Ventana Canyon Resort. Presently, Cass Preston plays monthly at the Kingfisher on Grant Road. He received the first annual Tucson Jazz Society Lifetime Achievement Award.